Two exceptional students from the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Dubai were selected to represent the university at the NUS Young Fellowship Program (NYFP) 2026, hosted by the National University of Singapore (NUS) from 21–26 June 2026. Bringing together high-achieving students from across the globe, the fellowship offered a unique platform for academic exchange, research, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Representing the School of Engineering & Information Technology, Ms. Nadiya Nijas, and the School of Design & Architecture, Adwaith, were selected through a competitive nomination process based on their academic excellence, research potential, and technical achievements.
Throughout the program, both students participated in an intensive series of lectures, workshops, research seminars, laboratory visits, and collaborative activities centred around Artificial Intelligence, graduate research, and emerging technologies. Sessions by distinguished NUS faculty explored topics including Large Language Models (LLMs), Data-Centric AI, robotics, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, psychology, and innovation, providing participants with valuable insights into the future of interdisciplinary research.
One of the highlights of the fellowship was the opportunity to experience learning beyond the classroom. Students visited the Mechatronics and Automation Laboratory, the SHINE (E6NanoFab) semiconductor fabrication facility, and leading industry organisations including Micron Technology Singapore and PSA Singapore, where they witnessed how artificial intelligence, automation, and digital technologies are transforming industries ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to global logistics and smart port operations.
Working alongside students from diverse nationalities and academic disciplines, the MAHE Dubai representatives also participated in collaborative group projects and an international poster competition focused on integrating AI into future research. These activities encouraged teamwork, cultural exchange, and multidisciplinary problem-solving while broadening their global perspectives.
Beyond the academic program, the students experienced the vibrant research ecosystem at NUS, exploring its world-class campus, innovation centres, museums, and sustainable infrastructure. The exposure to NUS's academic environment, combined with interactions with renowned researchers and fellow participants, further inspired them to pursue advanced research and international collaboration.
Reflecting on the fellowship, both students described the experience as transformative, highlighting the opportunity to learn directly from globally recognised faculty, engage with emerging technologies, collaborate with peers from around the world, and gain a deeper appreciation for interdisciplinary innovation. The program not only strengthened their technical knowledge but also enhanced their confidence, global outlook, and aspirations for higher studies and research.
